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Del Bufalo D, Damia G. Overview of BH3 mimetics in ovarian cancer. Cancer Treat Rev 2024; 129:102771. [PMID: 38875743 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctrv.2024.102771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024]
Abstract
Ovarian carcinoma is the leading cause of gynecological cancer-related death, still with a dismal five-year prognosis, mainly due to late diagnosis and the emergence of resistance to cytotoxic and targeted agents. Bcl-2 family proteins have a key role in apoptosis and are associated with tumor development/progression and response to therapy in different cancer types, including ovarian carcinoma. In tumors, evasion of apoptosis is a possible mechanism of resistance to therapy. BH3 mimetics are small molecules that occupy the hydrophobic pocket on pro-survival proteins, allowing the induction of apoptosis, and are currently under study as single agents and/or in combination with cytotoxic and targeted agents in solid tumors. Here, we discuss recent advances in targeting anti-apoptotic proteins of the Bcl-2 family for the treatment of ovarian cancer, focusing on BH3 mimetics, and how these approaches could potentially offer an alternative/complementary way to treat patients and overcome or delay resistance to current treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donatella Del Bufalo
- Preclinical Models and New Therapeutic Agents Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Via E. Chianesi 53, 00144 Rome, Italy.
| | - Giovanna Damia
- Laboratory of Gynecological Preclinical Oncology, Experimental Oncology Department, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Via M. Negri 2, 20156 Milan, Italy.
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Wyżewski Z, Stępkowska J, Kobylińska AM, Mielcarska A, Mielcarska MB. Mcl-1 Protein and Viral Infections: A Narrative Review. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1138. [PMID: 38256213 PMCID: PMC10816053 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25021138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
MCL-1 is the prosurvival member of the Bcl-2 family. It prevents the induction of mitochondria-dependent apoptosis. The molecular mechanisms dictating the host cell viability gain importance in the context of viral infections. The premature apoptosis of infected cells could interrupt the pathogen replication cycle. On the other hand, cell death following the effective assembly of progeny particles may facilitate virus dissemination. Thus, various viruses can interfere with the apoptosis regulation network to their advantage. Research has shown that viral infections affect the intracellular amount of MCL-1 to modify the apoptotic potential of infected cells, fitting it to the "schedule" of the replication cycle. A growing body of evidence suggests that the virus-dependent deregulation of the MCL-1 level may contribute to several virus-driven diseases. In this work, we have described the role of MCL-1 in infections caused by various viruses. We have also presented a list of promising antiviral agents targeting the MCL-1 protein. The discussed results indicate targeted interventions addressing anti-apoptotic MCL1 as a new therapeutic strategy for cancers as well as other diseases. The investigation of the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in viral infections engaging MCL1 may contribute to a better understanding of the regulation of cell death and survival balance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zbigniew Wyżewski
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University in Warsaw, Dewajtis 5, 01-815 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Justyna Stępkowska
- Institute of Family Sciences, Cardinal Stefan Wyszyński University in Warsaw, Dewajtis 5, 01-815 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Aleksandra Maria Kobylińska
- Division of Immunology, Department of Preclinical Sciences, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences—SGGW, Ciszewskiego 8, 02-786 Warsaw, Poland; (A.M.K.); (M.B.M.)
| | - Adriana Mielcarska
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Nutritional Disorders and Pediatrics, The Children’s Memorial Health Institute, Av. Dzieci Polskich 20, 04-730 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Matylda Barbara Mielcarska
- Division of Immunology, Department of Preclinical Sciences, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Warsaw University of Life Sciences—SGGW, Ciszewskiego 8, 02-786 Warsaw, Poland; (A.M.K.); (M.B.M.)
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Chiou JT, Wu YY, Lee YC, Chang LS. BCL2L1 inhibitor A-1331852 inhibits MCL1 transcription and triggers apoptosis in acute myeloid leukemia cells. Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 215:115738. [PMID: 37562509 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2023.115738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
BH3 mimetics exert anticancer activity by inhibiting anti-apoptotic BCL2 proteins. However, accumulating evidence indicates that the off-target effects of these drugs tightly modulates their anticancer activities. In this study, we investigated whether the BCL2L1 inhibitor A-1331852 induced the death of U937 acute myeloid leukemia (AML) cells through a non-BCL2L1-targeted effect. A-1331852-induced apoptosis in U937 cells was characterized by increased ROS production, downregulation of MCL1, and loss of mitochondrial membrane potential. Ectopic expression of MCL1 alleviated A-1331852-induced mitochondrial depolarization and cytotoxicity in U937 cells. A-1331852-induced ROS production increased p38 MAPK phosphorylation and inhibited MCL1 transcription. Inhibition of p38 MAPK activation restored MCL1 expression in A-1331852-treated cells. A-1331852 triggered p38 MAPK-mediated Cullin 3 downregulation, which in turn increased PP2Acα expression, thereby reducing CREB phosphorylation. A-1331852 reduced the binding of CREB to the MCL1 promoter, leading to the inhibition of CREB-mediated MCL1 transcription. Furthermore, A-1331852 acted synergistically with the BCL2 inhibitor ABT-199 to induce U937 and ABT-199-resistant U937 cell death by inhibiting MCL1 expression. A similar phenomenon caused A-1331852-induced MCL1 downregulation and cytotoxicity in AML HL-60 cells. Collectively, our data suggest that A-1331852 shows an off-target effect of inhibiting MCL1 transcription, ultimately leading to U937 and HL-60 cell death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing-Ting Chiou
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung 804, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Ying Wu
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung 804, Taiwan
| | - Yuan-Chin Lee
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung 804, Taiwan
| | - Long-Sen Chang
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, National Sun Yat-Sen University, Kaohsiung 804, Taiwan; Department of Biotechnology, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan.
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Zhang A, Guo Z, Ren JX, Chen H, Yang W, Zhou Y, Pan L, Chen Z, Ren F, Chen Y, Zhang M, Peng F, Chen W, Wang X, Zhang Z, Wu H. Development of an MCL-1-related prognostic signature and inhibitors screening for glioblastoma. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1162540. [PMID: 37538176 PMCID: PMC10394558 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1162540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The effect of the conventional treatment methods of glioblastoma (GBM) is poor and the prognosis of patients is poor. The expression of MCL-1 in GBM is significantly increased, which shows a high application value in targeted therapy. In this study, we predicted the prognosis of glioblastoma patients, and therefore constructed MCL-1 related prognostic signature (MPS) and the development of MCL-1 small molecule inhibitors. Methods: In this study, RNA-seq and clinical data of 168 GBM samples were obtained from the TCGA website, and immunological analysis, differential gene expression analysis and functional enrichment analysis were performed. Subsequently, MCL-1-associated prognostic signature (MPS) was constructed and validated by LASSO Cox analysis, and a nomogram was constructed to predict the prognosis of patients. Finally, the 17931 small molecules downloaded from the ZINC15 database were screened by LibDock, ADME, TOPKAT and CDOCKER modules and molecular dynamics simulation in Discovery Studio2019 software, and two safer and more effective small molecule inhibitors were finally selected. Results: Immunological analysis showed immunosuppression in the MCL1_H group, and treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors had a positive effect. Differential expression gene analysis identified 449 differentially expressed genes. Build and validate MPS using LASSO Cox analysis. Use the TSHR HIST3H2A, ARGE OSMR, ARHGEF25 build risk score, proved that low risk group of patients prognosis is better. Univariate and multivariate analysis proved that risk could be used as an independent predictor of patient prognosis. Construct a nomogram to predict the survival probability of patients at 1,2,3 years. Using a series of computer-aided techniques, two more reasonable lead compounds ZINC000013374322 and ZINC000001090002 were virtually selected. These compounds have potential inhibitory effects on MCL-1 and provide a basis for the design and further development of MCL-1 specific small molecule inhibitors. Discussion: This study analyzed the effect of MCL-1 on the prognosis of glioblastoma patients from the perspective of immunology, constructed a new prognostic model to evaluate the survival rate of patients, and further screened 2 MCL-1 small molecule inhibitors, which provides new ideas for the treatment and prognosis of glioblastoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ao Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Zhen Guo
- Department of Cardiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jia-xin Ren
- Department of Neurology, Stroke Center, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Hongyu Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wenzhuo Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yang Zhou
- Clinical College, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Lin Pan
- Clinical College, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Zhuopeng Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, State Key Laboratory of Oncology in South China, Collaborative Innovation Center for Cancer Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University Cancer Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fei Ren
- Clinical College, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Youqi Chen
- Clinical College, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Menghan Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical College, Xinxiang, China
| | - Fei Peng
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Wanting Chen
- Clinical College, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xinhui Wang
- Department of Hematology, The First Clinical Medical School of Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
| | - Zhiyun Zhang
- Department of Plastic Surgery, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Hui Wu
- Department of Ophthalmology, First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
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Senichkin VV, Pervushin NV, Zamaraev AV, Sazonova EV, Zuev AP, Streletskaia AY, Prikazchikova TA, Zatsepin TS, Kovaleva OV, Tchevkina EM, Zhivotovsky B, Kopeina GS. Bak and Bcl-xL Participate in Regulating Sensitivity of Solid Tumor Derived Cell Lines to Mcl-1 Inhibitors. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 14:cancers14010181. [PMID: 35008345 PMCID: PMC8750033 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14010181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Apoptosis is one of the best-known types of programmed cell death. This process is regulated by a number of genes and proteins, among which the Bcl-2 protein family plays a key role. This family includes anti- and proapoptotic proteins. Cancer cell resistance to apoptosis is commonly associated with overexpression of the antiapoptotic members of Bcl-2 family proteins, in particular, Bcl-2, Bcl-xL, and Mcl-1. Subsequently, these proteins represent perspective targets for anticancer therapy. Here, using an inhibitory approach, we found that Bak and Bcl-xL regulate sensitivity of cancer cells to Mcl-1 inhibition. Abstract BH3 mimetics represent a promising tool in cancer treatment. Recently, the drugs targeting the Mcl-1 protein progressed into clinical trials, and numerous studies are focused on the investigation of their activity in various preclinical models. We investigated two BH3 mimetics to Mcl-1, A1210477 and S63845, and found their different efficacies in on-target doses, despite the fact that both agents interacted with the target. Thus, S63845 induced apoptosis more effectively through a Bak-dependent mechanism. There was an increase in the level of Bcl-xL protein in cells with acquired resistance to Mcl-1 inhibition. Cell lines sensitive to S63845 demonstrated low expression of Bcl-xL. Tumor tissues from patients with lung adenocarcinoma were characterized by decreased Bcl-xL and increased Bak levels of both mRNA and proteins. Concomitant inhibition of Bcl-xL and Mcl-1 demonstrated dramatic cytotoxicity in six of seven studied cell lines. We proposed that co-targeting Bcl-xL and Mcl-1 might lead to a release of Bak, which cannot be neutralized by other anti-apoptotic proteins. Surprisingly, in Bak-knockout cells, inhibition of Mcl-1 and Bcl-xL still resulted in pronounced cell death, arguing against a sole role of Bak in the studied phenomenon. We demonstrate that Bak and Bcl-xL are co-factors for, respectively, sensitivity and resistance to Mcl-1 inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viacheslav V. Senichkin
- Faculty of Medicine, MV Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (V.V.S.); (N.V.P.); (A.V.Z.); (E.V.S.); (A.P.Z.); (A.Y.S.)
| | - Nikolay V. Pervushin
- Faculty of Medicine, MV Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (V.V.S.); (N.V.P.); (A.V.Z.); (E.V.S.); (A.P.Z.); (A.Y.S.)
| | - Alexey V. Zamaraev
- Faculty of Medicine, MV Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (V.V.S.); (N.V.P.); (A.V.Z.); (E.V.S.); (A.P.Z.); (A.Y.S.)
| | - Elena V. Sazonova
- Faculty of Medicine, MV Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (V.V.S.); (N.V.P.); (A.V.Z.); (E.V.S.); (A.P.Z.); (A.Y.S.)
| | - Anton P. Zuev
- Faculty of Medicine, MV Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (V.V.S.); (N.V.P.); (A.V.Z.); (E.V.S.); (A.P.Z.); (A.Y.S.)
| | - Alena Y. Streletskaia
- Faculty of Medicine, MV Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (V.V.S.); (N.V.P.); (A.V.Z.); (E.V.S.); (A.P.Z.); (A.Y.S.)
| | | | - Timofei S. Zatsepin
- Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology, 121205 Skolkovo, Russia; (T.A.P.); (T.S.Z.)
- Faculty of Chemistry, MV Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Olga V. Kovaleva
- NN Blokhin Russian Cancer Research Center, Department of Oncogenes Regulation, 115478 Moscow, Russia; (O.V.K.); (E.M.T.)
| | - Elena M. Tchevkina
- NN Blokhin Russian Cancer Research Center, Department of Oncogenes Regulation, 115478 Moscow, Russia; (O.V.K.); (E.M.T.)
| | - Boris Zhivotovsky
- Faculty of Medicine, MV Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (V.V.S.); (N.V.P.); (A.V.Z.); (E.V.S.); (A.P.Z.); (A.Y.S.)
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, 17177 Stockholm, Sweden
- Correspondence: (B.Z.); (G.S.K.)
| | - Gelina S. Kopeina
- Faculty of Medicine, MV Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (V.V.S.); (N.V.P.); (A.V.Z.); (E.V.S.); (A.P.Z.); (A.Y.S.)
- Correspondence: (B.Z.); (G.S.K.)
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Chamberlain V, Drew Y, Lunec J. Tipping Growth Inhibition into Apoptosis by Combining Treatment with MDM2 and WIP1 Inhibitors in p53 WT Uterine Leiomyosarcoma. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 14:cancers14010014. [PMID: 35008180 PMCID: PMC8750798 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14010014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2021] [Revised: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
As there is no optimal therapeutic strategy defined for women with advanced or recurrent uLMS, there is an urgent need for the discovery of novel, targeted approaches. One such area of interest is the pharmacological inhibition of the MDM2-p53 interaction with small-molecular-weight MDM2 inhibitors. Growth inhibition and cytotoxic assays were used to evaluate uLMS cell line responses to MDM2 inhibitors as single agents and in combination, qRT-PCR to assess transcriptional changes and Caspase-Glo 3/7 assay to detect apoptosis. RG7388 and HDM201 are potent, selective antagonists of the MDM2-p53 interaction that can effectively stabilise and activate p53 in a dose-dependent manner. GSK2830371, a potent and selective WIP1 phosphatase inhibitor, was shown to significantly potentiate the growth inhibitory effects of RG7388 and HDM201, and significantly increase the mRNA expression of p53 transcriptional target genes in a p53WT cell line at a concentration that has no growth inhibitory effects as a single agent. RG7388, HDM201 and GSK2830371 failed to induce apoptosis as single agents; however, a combination treatment tipped cells into apoptosis from senescence. These data present the possibility of MDM2 and WIP1 inhibitor combinations as a potential treatment option for p53WT uLMS patients that warrants further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Chamberlain
- Newcastle University Centre for Cancer, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HH, UK; (V.C.); (Y.D.)
| | - Yvette Drew
- Newcastle University Centre for Cancer, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HH, UK; (V.C.); (Y.D.)
- BC Cancer Centre Vancouver and Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V5Z 4EH, Canada
| | - John Lunec
- Newcastle University Centre for Cancer, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE2 4HH, UK; (V.C.); (Y.D.)
- Correspondence:
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Lee EF, Fairlie WD. Discovery, development and application of drugs targeting BCL-2 pro-survival proteins in cancer. Biochem Soc Trans 2021; 49:2381-2395. [PMID: 34515749 PMCID: PMC8589430 DOI: 10.1042/bst20210749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2021] [Revised: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The discovery of a new class of small molecule compounds that target the BCL-2 family of anti-apoptotic proteins is one of the great success stories of basic science leading to translational outcomes in the last 30 years. The eponymous BCL-2 protein was identified over 30 years ago due to its association with cancer. However, it was the unveiling of the biochemistry and structural biology behind it and its close relatives' mechanism(s)-of-action that provided the inspiration for what are now known as 'BH3-mimetics', the first clinically approved drugs designed to specifically inhibit protein-protein interactions. Herein, we chart the history of how these drugs were discovered, their evolution and application in cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erinna F. Lee
- La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria 3086, Australia
- Cell Death and Survival Laboratory, Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Heidelberg, Victoria 3084, Australia
- School of Cancer Medicine, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria 3086, Australia
| | - W. Douglas Fairlie
- La Trobe Institute for Molecular Science, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria 3086, Australia
- Cell Death and Survival Laboratory, Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Heidelberg, Victoria 3084, Australia
- School of Cancer Medicine, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria 3086, Australia
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Al-Odat O, von Suskil M, Chitren R, Elbezanti W, Srivastava S, Budak-Alpddogan T, Jonnalagadda S, Aggarwal B, Pandey M. Mcl-1 Inhibition: Managing Malignancy in Multiple Myeloma. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:699629. [PMID: 34349655 PMCID: PMC8327170 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.699629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Multiple myeloma (MM) is a plasma cells neoplasm. The overexpression of Bcl-2 family proteins, particularly myeloid cell leukemia 1 (Mcl-1), plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of MM. The overexpression of Mcl-1 is associated with drug resistance and overall poor prognosis of MM. Thus, inhibition of the Mcl-1 protein considered as a therapeutic strategy to kill the myeloma cells. Over the last decade, the development of selective Mcl-1 inhibitors has seen remarkable advancement. This review presents the critical role of Mcl-1 in the progression of MM, the most prominent BH3 mimetic and semi-BH3 mimetic that selectively inhibit Mcl-1, and could be used as single agent or combined with existing therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omar Al-Odat
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cooper Medical School of Rowan University, Camden, NJ, United States.,Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Rowan University, Glassboro, NJ, United States
| | - Max von Suskil
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cooper Medical School of Rowan University, Camden, NJ, United States.,Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Rowan University, Glassboro, NJ, United States
| | - Robert Chitren
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cooper Medical School of Rowan University, Camden, NJ, United States.,Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Rowan University, Glassboro, NJ, United States
| | - Weam Elbezanti
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cooper Medical School of Rowan University, Camden, NJ, United States.,Department of Hematology, Cooper Health University, Camden, NJ, United States
| | | | | | - Subash Jonnalagadda
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Rowan University, Glassboro, NJ, United States
| | | | - Manoj Pandey
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cooper Medical School of Rowan University, Camden, NJ, United States
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It's time to die: BH3 mimetics in solid tumors. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2021; 1868:118987. [PMID: 33600840 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2021.118987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2020] [Revised: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The removal of cells by apoptosis is an essential process regulating tissue homeostasis. Cancer cells acquire the ability to circumvent apoptosis and survive in an unphysiological tissue context. Thereby, the Bcl-2 protein family plays a key role in the initiation of apoptosis, and overexpression of the anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 proteins is one of the molecular mechanisms protecting cancer cells from apoptosis. Recently, small molecules targeting the anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 family proteins have been identified, and with venetoclax the first of these BH3 mimetics has been approved for the treatment of leukemia. In solid tumors the anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 family proteins Mcl-1 and Bcl-xL are frequently overexpressed or genetically amplified. In this review, we summarize the role of Mcl-1 and Bcl-xL in solid tumors and compare the different BH3 mimetics targeting Mcl-1 or Bcl-xL.
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Féral K, Jaud M, Philippe C, Di Bella D, Pyronnet S, Rouault-Pierre K, Mazzolini L, Touriol C. ER Stress and Unfolded Protein Response in Leukemia: Friend, Foe, or Both? Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11020199. [PMID: 33573353 PMCID: PMC7911881 DOI: 10.3390/biom11020199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Revised: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The unfolded protein response (UPR) is an evolutionarily conserved adaptive signaling pathway triggered by a stress of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) lumen compartment, which is initiated by the accumulation of unfolded proteins. This response, mediated by three sensors-Inositol Requiring Enzyme 1 (IRE1), Activating Transcription Factor 6 (ATF6), and Protein Kinase RNA-Like Endoplasmic Reticulum Kinase (PERK)—allows restoring protein homeostasis and maintaining cell survival. UPR represents a major cytoprotective signaling network for cancer cells, which frequently experience disturbed proteostasis owing to their rapid proliferation in an usually unfavorable microenvironment. Increased basal UPR also participates in the resistance of tumor cells against chemotherapy. UPR activation also occurs during hematopoiesis, and growing evidence supports the critical cytoprotective role played by ER stress in the emergence and proliferation of leukemic cells. In case of severe or prolonged stress, pro-survival UPR may however evolve into a cell death program called terminal UPR. Interestingly, a large number of studies have revealed that the induction of proapoptotic UPR can also strongly contribute to the sensitization of leukemic cells to chemotherapy. Here, we review the current knowledge on the consequences of the deregulation of UPR signaling in leukemias and their implications for the treatment of these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly Féral
- Inserm UMR1037-Cancer Research Center of Toulouse, 2 avenue Hubert Curien, Oncopole entrée C, CS 53717, 31037 Toulouse, France; (K.F.); (M.J.); (S.P.)
- Université Toulouse III Paul-Sabatier, F-31000 Toulouse, France
| | - Manon Jaud
- Inserm UMR1037-Cancer Research Center of Toulouse, 2 avenue Hubert Curien, Oncopole entrée C, CS 53717, 31037 Toulouse, France; (K.F.); (M.J.); (S.P.)
- Université Toulouse III Paul-Sabatier, F-31000 Toulouse, France
| | - Céline Philippe
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 4NS, UK; (C.P.); (D.D.B.); (K.R.-P.)
| | - Doriana Di Bella
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 4NS, UK; (C.P.); (D.D.B.); (K.R.-P.)
| | - Stéphane Pyronnet
- Inserm UMR1037-Cancer Research Center of Toulouse, 2 avenue Hubert Curien, Oncopole entrée C, CS 53717, 31037 Toulouse, France; (K.F.); (M.J.); (S.P.)
- Université Toulouse III Paul-Sabatier, F-31000 Toulouse, France
| | - Kevin Rouault-Pierre
- Barts Cancer Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 4NS, UK; (C.P.); (D.D.B.); (K.R.-P.)
| | - Laurent Mazzolini
- Inserm UMR1037-Cancer Research Center of Toulouse, 2 avenue Hubert Curien, Oncopole entrée C, CS 53717, 31037 Toulouse, France; (K.F.); (M.J.); (S.P.)
- CNRS ERL5294, CRCT, F-31037 Toulouse, France
- Correspondence: (L.M.); (C.T.)
| | - Christian Touriol
- Inserm UMR1037-Cancer Research Center of Toulouse, 2 avenue Hubert Curien, Oncopole entrée C, CS 53717, 31037 Toulouse, France; (K.F.); (M.J.); (S.P.)
- Université Toulouse III Paul-Sabatier, F-31000 Toulouse, France
- Correspondence: (L.M.); (C.T.)
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Mallick DJ, Eastman A. AT101 [(-)-Gossypol] Selectively Inhibits MCL1 and Sensitizes Carcinoma to BH3 Mimetics by Inducing and Stabilizing NOXA. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:E2298. [PMID: 32824203 PMCID: PMC7464284 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12082298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2020] [Revised: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Anti-apoptotic BCL2 proteins are important targets for cancer therapy as cancers depend on their activity for survival. Direct inhibitors of MCL1 have entered clinical trials, although their efficacy may be limited by toxicity. An alternative approach may be to induce the pro-apoptotic protein NOXA which selectively inhibits MCL1 in cells. Many compounds originally proposed as inhibitors of the BCL2 family were subsequently found to induce the pro-apoptotic protein NOXA through the unfolded protein response. In the present study, we compared various putative BH3 mimetics across a panel of carcinoma cell lines and measured expression of NOXA protein and mRNA, as well as the kinetics of NOXA induction. We found that AT101 [(-)-gossypol] induces high levels of NOXA in carcinoma cell lines yet cells survive. When combined with an appropriate BCL2 or BCL-XL inhibitor, NOXA-dependent sensitization occurs. NOXA protein continues to accumulate for many hours after AT101 is removed, providing a window for administering these combinations. As MCL1 promotes drug resistance and overall survival, we propose that NOXA induction is an alternative therapeutic strategy to target MCL1 and either kill cancer cells that are dependent on MCL1 or sensitize cancer cells to other BCL2 inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J. Mallick
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA;
| | - Alan Eastman
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA;
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology, and Norris Cotton Cancer Center, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA
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12
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Albendazole-Induced SIRT3 Upregulation Protects Human Leukemia K562 Cells from the Cytotoxicity of MCL1 Suppression. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21113907. [PMID: 32486166 PMCID: PMC7312678 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21113907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Revised: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 05/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous studies have shown that MCL1 stabilization confers cancer cells resistance to microtubule targeting agents (MTAs) and functionally extends the lifespan of MTA-triggered mitotically arrested cells. Albendazole (ABZ), a benzimidazole anthelmintic, shows microtubule-destabilizing activity and has been repositioned for cancer therapies. To clarify the role of MCL1 in ABZ-induced apoptosis, we investigated the cytotoxicity of ABZ on human leukemia K562 cells. Treatment with ABZ for 24 h did not appreciably induce apoptosis or mitochondrial depolarization in K562 cells, though it caused the mitotic arrest of K562 cells. ABZ-evoked p38 MAPK activation concurrently suppressed Sp1-mediated MCL1 expression and increased SIRT3 mRNA stability and protein expression. ABZ and A-1210477 (an MCL1 inhibitor) enhanced the cytotoxicity of ABT-263 (a BCL2/BCL2L1 inhibitor) to their effect on MCL1 suppression. Unlike ABZ, A-1210477 did not affect SIRT3 expression and reduced the survival of K562 cells. Overexpression of SIRT3 attenuated the A-1210477 cytotoxicity on K562 cells. ABZ treatment elicited marked apoptosis and ΔΨm loss in ABT-263-resistant K562 (K562/R) cells, but did not alter SIRT3 expression. Ectopic expression of SIRT3 alleviated the cytotoxicity of ABZ on K562/R cells. Collectively, our data demonstrate that ABZ-induced SIRT3 upregulation delays the apoptosis-inducing effect of MCL1 suppression on apoptosis induction in K562 cells.
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13
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Shen Y, Zhao H, Wang Z, Guan W, Kang X, Tai X, Sun Y. Silibinin declines blue light-induced apoptosis and inflammation through MEK/ERK/CREB of retinal ganglion cells. ARTIFICIAL CELLS NANOMEDICINE AND BIOTECHNOLOGY 2020; 47:4059-4065. [PMID: 31631701 DOI: 10.1080/21691401.2019.1671430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Purpose: This study aimed to assess the protective effects of silibinin on blue light-emitting diode (LED)-induced retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) damage. Methods: Silibinin was applied in RGCs damage in vitro model to test its protective effects. Cell viability was assessed with the MTT method and cell apoptosis was evaluated by TUNEL and Annexin V/propidium iodide staining. The expressions of apoptosis related proteins and influenced signalling pathways were measured using western blotting and immunohistochemistry. Inflammatory factors induced by RGC damage were detected using ELISA method. Results: It was found that silibinin in 50 and 100 μM treatment showed a significant protective effect in RGCs under blue light damage. Apoptosis assay showed that silibinin treatment could significantly improve the apoptotic status of RGCs. When the potentially affected signal pathway was considered, blue light would down-regulate the expression of MEK1/ERK/CREB. The levels of inflammatory factors (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-10) were significantly regulated by silibinin treatment. Conclusions: Silibinin pretreatment would demonstrate protective effect against blue light induced acute RGCs damage. Silibinin treatment has a direct suppression of apoptosis and inflammation through the activation of MEK/ERK/CREB pathway in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Shen
- Department of Myopia Laser Treatment, The Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University , Inner Mongolia , China
| | - Haixia Zhao
- Department of Myopia Laser Treatment, The Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University , Inner Mongolia , China
| | - Zhaoge Wang
- Department of Myopia Laser Treatment, The Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University , Inner Mongolia , China
| | - Wenying Guan
- Department of Myopia Laser Treatment, The Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University , Inner Mongolia , China
| | - Xin Kang
- Department of Myopia Laser Treatment, The Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University , Inner Mongolia , China
| | - Xue Tai
- Department of Myopia Laser Treatment, The Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University , Inner Mongolia , China
| | - Yaru Sun
- Department of Myopia Laser Treatment, The Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University , Inner Mongolia , China
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14
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Pervushin NV, Senichkin VV, Zhivotovsky B, Kopeina GS. Mcl-1 as a "barrier" in cancer treatment: Can we target it now? INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2020; 351:23-55. [PMID: 32247581 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ircmb.2020.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
During the last two decades, the study of Mcl-1, an anti-apoptotic member of the Bcl-2 family, attracted researchers due to its important role in cancer cell survival and tumor development. The significance of Mcl-1 protein in resistance to chemotherapeutics makes it an attractive target in cancer therapy. Here, we discuss the diverse possibilities for indirect Mcl-1 inhibition through its downregulation, for example, via targeting for proteasomal degradation or blockage of translation and transcription. We also provide an overview of the direct blocking of protein-protein interactions with pro-apoptotic Bcl-2 family proteins, including examples of the most promising regulators of Mcl-1 and selective BH3-mimetics, which at present are under clinical evaluation. Moreover, several approaches for the co-targeting of Mcl-1 and other proteins (e.g., CDKs) are also presented. In addition, we highlight the broad spectrum of problems that accompanied the discovery and development of effective Mcl-1 inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Boris Zhivotovsky
- Faculty of Medicine, MV Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia; Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Gelina S Kopeina
- Faculty of Medicine, MV Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia.
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15
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Villalobos-Ortiz M, Ryan J, Mashaka TN, Opferman JT, Letai A. BH3 profiling discriminates on-target small molecule BH3 mimetics from putative mimetics. Cell Death Differ 2019; 27:999-1007. [PMID: 31332296 DOI: 10.1038/s41418-019-0391-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2018] [Revised: 06/20/2019] [Accepted: 06/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Inhibition of the anti-apoptotic machinery of cancer cells is a promising therapeutic approach that has driven the development of an important class of compounds termed "BH3 mimetics". These novel small molecules mimic BH3-only proteins by antagonizing the pro-survival function of anti-apoptotic proteins, thereby inducing apoptosis in cancer cells. To qualify as an authentic BH3 mimetic, a compound must function directly on the mitochondria of a cell of known anti-apoptotic dependence, must directly and selectively inhibit the anti-apoptotic protein with high-affinity binding, and must induce mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization (MOMP) and apoptosis in a BAX/BAK-dependent manner. While many BH3 mimetics have entered clinical trials, the lack of a reliable validation assay to directly test the mitochondrial activity of new BH3 mimetic candidates has resulted in many misleading reports of agents touted as BH3 mimetics despite their off-target mechanisms of action. BH3 profiling probes the activity of a compound at the mitochondrial level by measuring cytochrome c release as a surrogate marker for MOMP. We propose a comprehensive biochemical toolkit consisting of BH3 profiling in parallel with high-throughput Annexin V/Hoechst viability testing to validate BH3 mimetic candidates. We tested our toolkit on eighteen different putative BH3 mimetics using a set of standardized cell lines of known anti-apoptotic dependence. Included in this set of cell lines is an apoptosis refractory BAX/BAK DKO control line to detect compounds that function independently of the BCL-2 family. Taken together, this rapid, efficient means of testing will prove advantageous as the demand for BH3 mimetics increases, particularly in the quest to identify and develop more potent MCL-1 inhibitors for use in the clinic. We strongly urge researchers utilizing BH3 mimetics in their work to use the potent and selective compounds identified with this validation toolkit instead of those lacking such potency and selectivity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jeremy Ryan
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, 02215, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Thelma N Mashaka
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, 02215, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Joseph T Opferman
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Anthony Letai
- Department of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, 02215, Boston, MA, USA. .,Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA. .,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA. .,Ludwig Center at Harvard, Boston, MA, USA.
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16
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Mallick DJ, Korotkov A, Li H, Wu J, Eastman A. Nuphar alkaloids induce very rapid apoptosis through a novel caspase-dependent but BAX/BAK-independent pathway. Cell Biol Toxicol 2019; 35:435-443. [PMID: 30826899 DOI: 10.1007/s10565-019-09469-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2018] [Accepted: 02/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Nuphar alkaloids, originally isolated from water lilies, induce apoptosis in mammalian cells in less than 1 h, making them possibly the fastest known inducers. However, the mechanism by which this rapid apoptosis occurs remains unknown. We have investigated canonical aspects of apoptosis to determine how the nuphar alkaloid, (+)-6-hydroxythiobinupharidine (6HTBN), induces apoptosis. 6HTBN induced rapid apoptosis in various leukemia, lymphoma, and carcinoma cell lines, suggesting that its mechanism is cell-type independent. It also circumvented resistance of patient-derived chronic lymphocytic leukemia cells generated by co-culture on survival-promoting stroma. Intriguingly, 6HTBN failed to induce apoptosis in platelets. The mechanism of apoptosis involves activation of caspase 9 and caspase 3, but not caspase 8 as previously reported. The release of cytochrome c from mitochondria occurred even in the absence of BAX/BAK and in cells that retained mitochondrial membrane potential. These results suggest a novel mechanism of apoptosis that has previously not been reported. The molecular target of the nuphar alkaloids remains to be determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J Mallick
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology, Geisel School of Medicine, Lebanon, NH, USA
| | | | - Hui Li
- Department of Chemistry, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, USA
| | - Jimmy Wu
- Department of Chemistry, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, USA.,Norris Cotton Cancer Center, Geisel School of Medicine, Rubin Building Level 6, One Medical Center Drive, Lebanon, NH, 03756, USA
| | - Alan Eastman
- Department of Molecular and Systems Biology, Geisel School of Medicine, Lebanon, NH, USA. .,Norris Cotton Cancer Center, Geisel School of Medicine, Rubin Building Level 6, One Medical Center Drive, Lebanon, NH, 03756, USA.
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